Thrifted harem pants (originally ASOS), Primark top, H&M cardigan, Primark pumps, thrifted ring, gold name necklace
On Monday the oh-so-lovely Victoria from Lily Loves Lola left me a comment that really got me thinking…
“I wish I had room for such creativity. My new job seems dead smart – today I wore black pumps, black trousers and a stripy shirt. Seriously no fashion breaking look there! Grr.”
Hands up if you have the same problem! In offices across the world, secretly stylish folk are forced into shiny black trousers, straining white shirts and sensible shoes. I’ve suffered the same fate myself – I once worked in a council-run office with the most basic of dress codes – black trousers, black shoes, white t-shirt. I’ve never felt so stifled in all my life. My wardrobe was overflowing with white t-shirts in every shape you can imagine. I rocked ruffles, slashed necks, bell sleeves and once, polka dots, which saw me hauled in front of the boss for ‘inappropriate patterns’ (I kid you not).
It’s really easy to fall into the workwear trap – you buy 10 versions of the same thing and wear them day after day. Life becomes a monochrome nightmare and that red cardigan you just HAD TO HAVE 3 months ago now hurts your eyes. Luckily enough, I can wear whatever I fancy at work, but there are times I need to be smarter and I’m loathe to go back to black and white. Take a look at my top tips for office dressing and let me know how you flex your fashion muscles when dressing for work by leaving a comment. I’d love to know!
Bottoms up
If you’re restricted to smart trousers or skirts, look for interesting shapes to add a little drama to the daily grind. The harem trousers I’m wearing today have clever draping that flatters the figure, and the shorter leg length is great for warmer weather. I’m also a huge fan of pencil skirts – go all Mad Men by wearing yours on the waist and belted.
Top of the class
If you can get away with them, printed tees make your office outfit fun and fashionable. Look for classic cotton in simple, muted tones – spring’s nude colours look great against black. If you need to be smarter, chiffon blouses make for a softer look, or work that 50s secretary vibe with a silk pussybow shirt in a bright, jewel shade.
Best foot forward
Shoes are your secret weapons – I dare you to go as bright and bold as you can! If your office is fastidious about footwear, wear your most outrageous heels with wide legged trousers. No one will see them, but you’ll know how fabulous your feet look! If you like to keep close to the ground (like me), pretty flats in a range of colours and fabrics are essential. Leather gladiator sandals are great for the summer, but treat your feet to a pedicure first.
Divine details
From loud and proud cocktail rings to classic gold chains, accessories can brighten up the plainest of uniforms. If your outfit is classic, wear more than one statement ring to gaze at while you’re typing. Layered necklaces look stylish over simple tees and belts, bangles and hairbands are your fashionable friends. Even a Blockbuster video uniform (that I wore for 2 years when I worked there) can be made beautiful with accessories!
